Cut and Thrust - Your Journey Through the Middle Ages

#medieval #leather #craftsmanship In this episode, Hendrik and Carmen show you how raw animal hide became the indispensable material of the Middle Ages. Today we dive into the fascinating world of tanneries and discover why this craft was so much more than just leather production. From the earliest preservation methods of the Stone Age to the specialized guilds of the late Middle Ages - leather was THE durable material for everything: clothing, armor, tools, even cooking vessels! We explain the different tanning processes like bark tanning and chamois tanning, show why tanneries were located on the outskirts of towns, and how dangerous the profession was due to anthrax. Particularly fascinating: how you could cook with hot stones in leather pouches and why animal hides even served as currency. Learn also how the guild system professionalized the craft and why nothing was wasted - from gelatin production to parchment making for important documents. Enjoy, and see you next time! #tannery #medievalcraft #guildsystem #leathermaking Battle-Merchant: https://www.battlemerchant.com/ Battle-Merchant Blog: https://www.battlemerchant.com/en/blog/ Blog post for this episode: https://www.battlemerchant.com/en/blog/leather-in-the-middle-ages-tanning-processes-and-leather-articles TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@battlemerchant Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/battlemerchant Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/battlemerchant Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.de/battlemerchant/

#saintnicholas #history #medieval In this episode, Hendrik reveals the fascinating transformation of the historical Bishop Nicholas of Myra into the modern gift-bringer. Today we dive into 1700 years of cultural history and discover surprising truths. From the real person of the 4th century through medieval customs to Knecht Ruprecht and Krampus – learn how a persecuted bishop became a worldwide legend. We shed light on the darker sides of the St. Nicholas tradition, the original punishment rituals, and how the custom evolved from the placing tradition to the visiting tradition. Especially intriguing: the origin of gift-giving customs through the legend of the three lumps of gold, and why paper boats were used instead of boots in earlier times. Enjoy, and see you next time! 😍 #saintslegends #folklore #stnicholasday #knechruprecht #krampus Battle-Merchant: https://www.battlemerchant.com/ Battle-Merchant Blog: https://www.battlemerchant.com/en/blog/ Blog post for this episode: https://www.battlemerchant.com/en/blog/st.-nicholas-legends-customs-and-historical-background TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@battlemerchant Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/battlemerchant Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/battlemerchant Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.de/battlemerchant/

In this episode, we take you into the medieval kitchen and cook a complete Viking-inspired menu together: mead vegetables with root vegetables as the main course, herb quark with fresh bread as a starter, and skyr with berries and nuts for dessert. We show you step by step how to prepare these dishes over an open fire and explain what ingredients the Vikings really had available. We debunk the persistent myth that medieval cooking was bland and monotonous. Archaeological finds from places like Hedeby reveal a surprising variety of vegetables, herbs, and cooking techniques. We discuss which ingredients are historically authentic and which are modern interpretations, explain the difference between cast iron and medieval pottery, and give practical tips for camp cooking. Whether you're a beginner or experienced camp cook - this episode provides concrete instructions, equipment recommendations, and shows how these recipes work just as well in your home kitchen. The focus is on the communal aspect of cooking and how historical recipes can be brought to life today.

#medieval #childreninmiddleages #history In this episode, Hendrik and Carmen show you how different childhood could look in the Middle Ages. From the earliest years to the early working world – the little ones often had to take on adult tasks while at the same time being considered God-given gifts. We dive into the seven life stages of the Middle Ages, where seven-year-olds were no longer considered children. Learn about the harsh realities of child labor in mines and on farms, but also about the beautiful sides: medieval games, toys, and the universal moments of childhood that haven't changed to this day. From dice games made of bone to sandcastles – some things are simply timeless. Particularly moving: Emperor Frederick II's tragic experiment and the early insights into the importance of emotional bonding for children. Plus the role of the Church, disciplinary methods, and why noble children often had wet nurses. We'd love to hear your comments! 😍 #medievalhistory #familyhistory #childlabor #toyhistory #childrearing ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ Battle-Merchant: https://www.battlemerchant.com/ Battle-Merchant Blog: https://www.battlemerchant.com/en/blog/ Blog post for this episode: https://www.battlemerchant.com/en/blog/children-in-the-middle-ages TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@battlemerchant Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/battlemerchant Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/battlemerchant Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.de/battlemerchant/

#medievaltournaments #joust #jousting In this episode, we dive into the spectacular world of medieval tournaments! Hendrik and Carmen show you how brutal combat exercises of the 11th century transformed into magnificent social events that captivated all of Europe. From the early mass battles in northern France to the elegant jousting duels – we explore the fascinating evolution of knight tournaments. Learn how the specialized tournament lances with their clever designed breaking points worked, what technique lay behind jousting, and why these events were far more than just sporting competitions. Discover the politics, economics, and courtly culture that developed around the tournament grounds, and hear the tragic story of King Henry II, whose death in 1559 ended an era. We'd love to hear your comments! 😍 #knighttournaments #medieval #lances #knightlyculture #tournamenthistory #courtlyculture #reenactment Battle-Merchant: https://www.battlemerchant.com/ Battle-Merchant Blog: https://www.battlemerchant.com/en/blog/ Blog post for this episode: https://www.battlemerchant.com/en/blog/lance-and-spear-in-medieval-tournaments-weapon-battle-culture-and-symbol TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@battlemerchant Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/battlemerchant Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/battlemerchant Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.de/battlemerchant/

#blackdeath #plaguehistory #medieval In this fascinating episode, Hendrik and Carmen dive deep into the history of the most devastating pandemic of all time. The Black Death, which ravaged Europe between 1347 and 1351, claimed the lives of about a third of the population and changed the medieval world forever. You'll learn how the bacterium Yersinia pestis traveled from Central Asia to Europe along the Silk Road, what dramatic effects the three forms of plague had, and why medieval medicine was completely helpless. From the first quarantine measures in Italian port cities to the social upheavals that shook the feudal system – this episode illuminates all aspects of the greatest catastrophe of the Middle Ages. Especially fascinating: Why the famous beaked masks of plague doctors are a myth, and which control strategies actually worked without anyone knowing the true causes. Enjoy listening, and see you next time! 😍 #plaguedoctor #quarantine #medievalhistory #pandemic #blackdeath #plaguecontrol #medicalhistory Battle-Merchant: https://www.battlemerchant.com/ Battle-Merchant Blog: https://www.battlemerchant.com/en/blog/ Blog post for this episode: https://www.battlemerchant.com/en/blog/the-plague-in-the-middle-ages-causes-effects-and-control-measures TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@battlemerchant Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/battlemerchant Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/battlemerchant Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.de/battlemerchant/

#firearms #militaryhistory #weaponstechnology In this episode, Hendrik and Carmen dive into the fascinating evolution of firearm ignition mechanisms. From the medieval serpentine of the matchlock to the revolutionary flintlock to the percussion lock invented by a Scottish minister – each system was an ingenious answer to the weaknesses of its predecessor. Learn how the glowing slow match heralded the end of the age of knights, why Marin le Bourgeoys' flintlock innovation remained the standard for over 200 years, and how Alexander Forsyth's passion for hunting led to the development of the percussion cap. With practical insights into historical battles, technical details, and the daily life of soldiers, it becomes clear how these developments revolutionized not just warfare, but entire social structures. An exciting journey through time for all history enthusiasts, reenactment fans, and anyone who wants to understand how innovation changes the world – quite literally with a bang. We'd love to hear your comments! 😍 #matchlock #flintlock #percussioncap #historyofwarfare #reenactment #livinghistory #napoleonicwars #thirtyyearswar Battle-Merchant: https://www.battlemerchant.com/ Battle-Merchant Blog: https://www.battlemerchant.com/en/blog/ Link to this episode: https://www.battlemerchant.com/en/blog/firing-mechanisms-of-historical-rifle-replicas TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@battlemerchant Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/battlemerchant Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/battlemerchant Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.de/battlemerchant/

#vikings #diy #craftsmanship In this exciting episode, Hendrik and Carmen show you how to design your very own Viking axe! From the historical significance of the axe to practical implementation today. We dive into the fascinating world of Viking axes and explain why these tools were far more important to the Norsemen than swords. From the famous Mammen Axe with its elaborate decorations to simple work axes – the Vikings knew how to personalize their tools. You'll learn everything about material selection, tools, and techniques: What wood is best suited for the shaft? How do you wedge the axe head properly? And how can you customize your axe with leather wrappings, pyrography, or other decorations? We pay attention to both historical authenticity and practical feasibility for reenactment, LARP, or home decoration. We'd love to hear your comments! 😍 #medieval #reenactment #larp #vikingfinds #craftsmanship #mammen #axebuilding Battle-Merchant: https://www.battlemerchant.com/ Battle-Merchant Blog: https://www.battlemerchant.com/en/blog/ Blog post for this episode: https://www.battlemerchant.com/en/blog/viking-axe-how-to-make-an-axe-with-simple-tools TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@battlemerchant Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/battlemerchant Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/battlemerchant Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.de/battlemerchant/

#medieval #wimple #headwear In this episode, Hendrik and Carmen show you the fascinating history of the wimple - a medieval head covering worn from the 9th to the 15th century. Discover why this clever wrapping technique doesn't need expensive pins and still holds all day long! From practical protection against dust and vermin to status symbol of high society: The wimple was more than just a piece of fabric. We explore the possible connections to Viking kerchiefs, explain the cultural significance for married women, and show you step by step how the wrapping technique works. Whether made of simple linen for a peasant woman or fine silk for a noblewoman - this ingenious invention adapted to every social class. Especially fascinating: Why pins were so valuable in the Middle Ages that a head covering without fastening offered real advantages. Plus practical tips for anyone who wants to try the wimple today at reenactment events or medieval fairs. We'd love to hear your comments! 😍 #medievalgarb #reenactment #headwear #wimple #medievalfair #livinghistory #larp Battle-Merchant: https://www.battlemerchant.com/ Battle-Merchant Blog: https://www.battlemerchant.com/en/blog/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@battlemerchant Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/battlemerchant Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/battlemerchant Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.de/battlemerchant/

#medieval #winter #history In this fascinating episode, Hendrik and Carmen show you how people in the Middle Ages not only survived winter but actually enjoyed it! From the Medieval Climate Optimum with wine cultivation in England to the icy 1430s – the history of winter is full of surprises. You'll learn how clever the layering principle was in medieval clothing, why fur didn't only mean luxury, and how revolutionary the tile stove was for heating. From ingenious food preservation with sauerkraut and cured meat to the elaborate firewood logistics to winter amusements like ice skating on bone runners – the Middle Ages were much cozier than you'd think! People developed ingenious strategies: wood-paneled chambers as warm retreats, warming stones for the bed, and even a putting-out system for winter work. Despite all the hardships, wonderful traditions emerged – from Christmas celebrations to Shrovetide that still shape our culture today. We'd love to hear your comments! 😍 #tilestove #medievalclothing #winterhistory #livinghistory #reenactment #medievallife #foodpreservation Battle-Merchant: https://www.battlemerchant.com/ Battle-Merchant Blog: https://www.battlemerchant.com/en/blog/ Blog post for this episode: https://www.battlemerchant.com/en/blog/winter-challenges-and-pleasures-in-medieval-europe TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@battlemerchant Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/battlemerchant Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/battlemerchant Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.de/battlemerchant/

#medieval #christmas #history In this episode, Hendrik and Carmen take you on a fascinating journey through time: How did the pagan Yule festival become our Christian Christmas? Discover the surprising roots of our favorite traditions! From the Germanic midwinter festival through Roman Saturnalia to the Church's clever Christianization – this story is full of unexpected twists. Why do we celebrate on December 25th? Where do the Christmas tree, Advent wreath, and the Rough Nights come from? And what do ten thousand eels have to do with King John's Christmas feast? Learn how Martin Luther invented the Christ Child, why candles and evergreen branches were so important, and how people in the Middle Ages – from king to shepherd – celebrated this special festival. A story about light in the darkness, hope in winter, and the remarkable continuity of human traditions. Enjoy listening, and Merry Christmas! 🎄 #yule #wintersolstice #saturnalia #christchild #adventwreath #roughnights #medievalhistory Battle-Merchant: https://www.battlemerchant.com/ Battle-Merchant Blog: https://www.battlemerchant.com/en/blog/ Blog post for this episode: https://www.battlemerchant.com/en/blog/christmas-in-the-middle-ages-or-how-the-midwinter-festival-became-a-christian-festival TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@battlemerchant Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/battlemerchant Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/battlemerchant Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.de/battlemerchant/

#antiquity #womenshistory #history In this episode, Carmen and Hendrik show you just how diverse the lives of ancient women really were! Between myth and reality, we discover three completely different worlds: strict Athens, freer Sparta, and evolving Rome. From the confined Athenian housewife to training Spartan warrior women to Roman businesswomen - the differences are astonishing. New archaeological discoveries from Pompeii reveal merchants like Dicidia Margaris and the baker Asellina, who even endorsed political candidates. Priestesses like the powerful Vestal Virgins or the Pythia of Delphi wielded real political influence. Research from recent decades has broken down old stereotypes and reveals: there was no single "ancient woman" - but countless different lived experiences depending on culture, region, and social class. We'd love to hear your comments! 😍 #romanhistory #sparta #athens #archaeology #womensrights #pompeii #vestalvirgins Battle-Merchant: https://www.battlemerchant.com/ Battle-Merchant Blog: https://www.battlemerchant.com/en/blog/ Blog post for this episode: https://www.battlemerchant.com/en/blog/women-s-roles-in-antiquity-myth-and-reality TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@battlemerchant Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/battlemerchant Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/battlemerchant Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.de/battlemerchant/